Rail Budget: The Indian Railways is often regarded as the lifeline of the nation, connecting countless towns and cities across the subcontinent. As of now, the Indian Railways boasts an extensive network of 64,015 kilometers, managed by a dedicated workforce consisting of millions of employees. This year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has allocated a budget of ₹2.55 lakh crore for the Indian Railways. Despite the rapid development, the recent past has also seen a surge in unfortunate incidents, including several major railway accidents in 2024 and a tragic stampede at New Delhi’s largest railway station that resulted in 18 casualties on February 15. Interestingly, did you know that in the year 1947-48, the Indian Railways budget was remarkably lower? In the last 78 years, this budget has skyrocketed by 17,857 times. In this article, we delve deeper into the details of the rail budget over the years.
What Was the Rail Budget in 1947-48?
When India gained independence, the nation’s economic condition was far from ideal. While the British had laid a railway track spanning 53,596 kilometers, this network primarily served their interests. In the first rail budget of independent India, the government allocated a mere ₹14.28 crore.
The Astronomical Growth in Rail Budget by 2025
From the initial 53,596 kilometers of track at the time of independence, the rail network now stretches to 64,015 kilometers. The budget allocated has seen an unprecedented rise, from ₹14.28 crore to ₹2.55 lakh crore, marking an increase of 17,857 times. A significant portion of this budget caters to employee salaries and pensions, while another major chunk is dedicated to track maintenance and the introduction of new trains.
Comparison of 2025 and Previous Budgets
The railway budget for the financial year 2025-26 has seen a reduction of ₹7,000 crore when compared to the previous year. The government had presented a budget of ₹2.62 lakh crore for the 2024 financial year, whereas the allocation for 2025 stands at ₹2.55 lakh crore.
Passenger Statistics Comparison with Australia
Every day, around 23.1 million passengers travel on Indian Railways, a figure that is equivalent to Australia’s entire population. The record-breaking number of travelers showcases the critical role Indian Railways plays in the daily lives of millions, acting as a vital component of public transport and connectivity.
Conclusion
The journey of the Indian Railways from its inception to the present day is a testament to the country’s growth and resilience. As it continues to serve and adapt, the vast network remains an essential part of India’s infrastructure, supporting the movement of people and goods across the nation.
| Year | Rail Network (km) | Rail Budget (in crore ₹) |
|---|---|---|
| 1947-48 | 53,596 | 14.28 |
| 2025-26 | 64,015 | 2,55,000 |